Introduction to the Hikvision DS-2CE79H8T-AIT3ZF and its key features
The Hikvision DS-2CE79H8T-AIT3ZF is a 5MP TurboHD varifocal turret camera designed for analogue CCTV systems, offering a blend of high-resolution imaging, flexible optics and robust outdoor protection. With a motorised 2.7–13.5 mm lens, Smart IR up to 60 m, True WDR and an IP67-rated metal housing, this camera targets installers and end users who need a reliable retrofit option for existing coax infrastructure or a cost-effective way to step up image quality without moving to full IP systems.
Key features at a glance:
- 5 MP (2560 × 1944) CMOS sensor for detailed images
- Motorised varifocal lens 2.7–13.5 mm with remote adjustment (HFOV 92.3°–29.3°)
- Ultra-low-light performance (0.003 Lux) and 0 Lux with IR
- Smart IR illumination up to 60 m and True WDR (≥130 dB)
- Switchable 4-in-1 video output (TVI / AHD / CVI / CVBS) for easy retrofit
- IP67 weatherproof metal housing and wide operating temperature range
Detailed specifications and benefits
The DS-2CE79H8T-AIT3ZF packs features commonly required for modern surveillance into an analogue turret form factor. Below are the most relevant specifications and the practical benefits they deliver:
- 5 MP CMOS (2560 × 1944)— The higher pixel count produces sharper stills and more detail on moving objects compared with 2MP or 1080p analogue cameras, making it easier to identify faces, licence plates and fine scene details.
- Motorised varifocal 2.7–13.5 mm— Remote adjustment of focal length simplifies commissioning and fine-tuning. Installers can change the field of view without physical lens swaps: wide-angle for broad coverage or telephoto for longer-range detail.
- HFOV 92.3°–29.3°— Wide enough for entrances, retail floors and smaller car parks at the wide end; tight framing for perimeter or longer sightlines when zoomed in.
- 0.003 Lux (F1.2, AGC ON)— Very sensitive sensor performance under dim lighting, reducing reliance on supplementary lighting.
- Smart IR up to 60 m— Active infrared that adapts to scene distance helps avoid overexposure of close objects while illuminating mid-to-long range areas effectively, useful for car parks and perimeters.
- True WDR ≥130 dB— Handles scenes with strong contrast (backlit entrances, windows against bright skies) so that details are retained across bright and dark zones.
- Image enhancement functions— BLC, HLC and 3D DNR help with backlight, glare from headlights and noise reduction, respectively, improving identification and recording quality.
- Switchable video output (TVI / AHD / CVI / CVBS)— The 4-in-1 output makes the camera highly versatile for retrofitting into different analogue platforms and hybrid recorders without changing cabling.
- Power— Operates on 12 VDC ±20% or 24 VAC ±20%, with maximum consumption around 10.5 W; suitable for typical CCTV power supplies and PoE is not supported since it is analogue.
- IP67 metal housing— Weatherproof construction and a wide operating temperature range (−40 °C to 60 °C) enable outdoor deployment in harsh climates.
- Compact turret form— Surface mount turret (approx. 124 × 134 × 110 mm; ~630 g) is unobtrusive yet durable for both domestic and commercial sites.
Use cases and scenarios where this camera excels
The design and feature set make the DS-2CE79H8T-AIT3ZF suitable for a range of surveillance scenarios where analogue infrastructure remains in place or where a cost-effective yet capable camera is required:
With a long-range Smart IR and adjustable lens, this camera can be tuned to monitor fences, gates and property edges. True WDR also helps where sunrise/sunset glare could obscure intruders.
Smart IR to 60 m and low-light sensitivity are useful in vehicle areas where lighting varies and identification at night is important. The motorised zoom lets you prioritise entrance coverage or licence plate capture.
The 5MP sensor captures customer activity and transaction areas with more detail than older analogue cameras. WDR and image enhancement reduce washout by bright shopfront windows and doorways.
For sites with existing coax cabling and DVRs, the camera's switchable outputs (TVI/AHD/CVI/CVBS) mean minimal rewiring and lower installation cost compared with a full IP migration.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When evaluating this Hikvision turret against alternatives, consider three main axes: image quality, flexibility (lens/output) and environmental robustness.
The jump to 5MP yields noticeably improved detail for identification tasks. If your priority is capturing finer scene detail (faces, plates, signage), a 5MP TurboHD camera like this will outperform older 2MP models, albeit with slightly higher storage and bandwidth requirements on DVRs that support 5MP.
Fixed lenses are cheaper and simpler, but a motorised varifocal lens provides on-site and remote flexibility that reduces commissioning time and the need for lens swaps or camera repositioning. For mixed environments where coverage needs may change, the motorised varifocal is a clear advantage.
IP cameras typically offer more analytics, ease of remote management and PoE power options. However, for retrofit scenarios where coax is in place, a TurboHD analogue camera avoids rewiring costs and can offer comparable image quality in many cases. If advanced analytics (e.g., deep learning-based people counting) are crucial, IP may be a better choice; if budget and retrofit simplicity matter more, this analogue turret is attractive.
Competing analogue turrets may offer similar resolutions and IR ranges, but differences emerge in motorised lens functionality, WDR performance and build quality. The combination of 5MP, motorised 2.7–13.5 mm lens, True WDR ≥130 dB and IP67 metal housing positions the Hikvision model as a strong mid-range performer for professional CCTV installers and value-conscious end users.
Customer testimonials and feedback
Direct customer reviews for specific models vary by installation and installer skill, but common themes from users choosing 5MP TurboHD Hikvision cameras include:
- "Noticeably clearer images" — Many users report improved recognition of faces and vehicle details compared with older 2MP analogue cameras.
- "Easy retrofit" — Installers appreciate the 4-in-1 video output for compatibility with a range of DVRs and the motorised varifocal for quick field adjustment without ladder time.
- "Good night performance" — Feedback often cites effective night-time coverage thanks to Smart IR and low-light sensitivity, though placement and IR reflection can still affect close-range image balance.
Note:If you require verified third-party reviews or site-specific case studies, ask the supplier for references or check trade forums and reseller sites where installers publish installation photos and performance notes.
Installation, compliance and practical considerations
Installation should be performed by a qualified installer or electrician. The camera accepts 12 VDC or 24 VAC power and consumes up to ~10.5 W, so power supply calculations and cabling quality matter—especially for longer runs. Check product labelling and documentation for CE/UKCA marks and ensure local electrical and surveillance regulations are met. Because this is an analogue device, it does not use PoE; for PoE or advanced network features, consider an IP alternative.
Warranty terms are determined by the supplier and region—confirm warranty coverage and after-sales support at the point of purchase.
Conclusion: why the DS-2CE79H8T-AIT3ZF is a great choice
The Hikvision DS-2CE79H8T-AIT3ZF offers a compelling mix of resolution, optical flexibility and ruggedness for sites that need improved image quality without migrating away from analogue infrastructure. Its motorised 2.7–13.5 mm varifocal lens simplifies commissioning and adjustments, the 5MP sensor provides clearer detail for identification, and Smart IR with True WDR ensures useful images across a variety of lighting conditions.
For installers and end users focused on retrofit projects, small-to-medium commercial sites, car parks and perimeter security, this turret camera balances performance and cost (suggested price around $84.99) while reducing installation complexity through 4-in-1 output compatibility. If you prioritise advanced IP analytics or PoE convenience, an IP camera platform may be preferable, but for many practical surveillance needs the DS-2CE79H8T-AIT3ZF represents a strong, value-oriented option.
